Dental Course Syllabus & Subjects 2023: Semester-wise List, Top Colleges Syllabus PDF
Parul ThapaSenior Executive Content
Dental courses or Dentistry is the branch of Medicine that deals with the prevention and treatment of oral disorders, such as diseases of the teeth and their supporting structures and diseases of the mouth's soft tissues. Dentistry also includes diagnosing and treating jaw malformations, tooth misalignment, and congenital defects of the oral cavity, such as cleft palate. Dental specialities and subspecialties include orthodontics and paediatric dentistry, dental orthopaedics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, periodontics, public health dentistry, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral and maxillofacial pathology, and oral and maxillofacial radiology, in addition to general practice.
Dental Syllabus- Important Facts
Take a look at the important information regarding the Dental course in terms of admission, college, syllabus and scope.
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Admission through NEET: The admission to Dentistry courses across India is conducted through the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). Upon qualifying for the exam by clearing the cutoff, candidates will have to participate in the counselling process conducted by national and state-level admission authorities.
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Duration: The duration of the Dentistry course depends upon the level of the programme. The UG level Dentistry programme or Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) is of five years duration including one year of internship. On the other hand, Master in Dental Surgery (MDS) programme is of three years.
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Dentistry Course Evaluation Pattern: Students are marked based on the internal exams, projects, vivas, lab exercises and internships.
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Scope of Dentistry: A practitioner in Dentistry might work in various areas. A dentist is usually called in to undertake dental identification of an unknown individual or confirm the identification of a deceased person. In recent years, dentistry has provided excellent job options. Dental problems have become a widespread issue affecting people from all walks of life. Procedures for treatment have gotten more specialised as science and technology have progressed. As a result, the career is both difficult and financially rewarding, attracting new aspirants. Dentistry is a discipline of study that deals with dental care and treatment.
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Dental Syllabus: The regular Dental syllabus contains the following subjects:
o General Pathology
o Oral Microbiology
o Microbiology
o Oral Pathology
o General and Dental Pharmacology
o Preclinical Conservative Dentistry
o Dental Therapeutics
Dental Syllabus
The following table brings the Dental syllabus in detail wherein the Dental subjects and the description is given for both core and elective subjects.
Typical Core Dental Subjects
Subject title |
Subject Details |
---|---|
General Pathology |
General pathology refers to a broad and complicated field that studies the mechanisms underlying cell and tissue injury as well as how the body responds to and repairs harm. Necrosis, neoplasia, inflammation, wound healing, and how cells respond to harm are some of the topics that may be researched. |
Microbiology |
Microbiology is the study of bacteria, algae, viruses, slime moulds, fungi, and protozoa, which are tiny organisms. Most other biological investigations do not use the tools used to examine and manipulate these tiny, mainly unicellular creatures. |
Oral Microbiology |
Oral Microbiology discusses biofilms on oral surfaces comprising tens or hundreds of distinct species, all of which interact and contribute to the system's overall function. The biofilm interacts with the host tissues as well as external influences including nutritional intake and smoke inhalation. |
Preclinical Conservative Dentistry
|
Preclinical operative dentistry is a part of operative dentistry in which students receive hands-on training on dummy models in a simulated oral environment for tooth preparation and restoration using various materials. |
Oral Pathology |
Oral pathology is the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders affecting the gums, teeth, joints, bones, skin, glands, and muscles around the mouth. According to the American Dental Education Association, Oral Pathologists need an average of 37 months of advanced education to become experts in their speciality. |
General and Dental Pharmacology |
In dentistry, pharmacology is crucial. The goal of dental pharmacology is to comprehend the scientific aspects of how medications used in dentistry interact with the human body's numerous systems. Pharmacology includes pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, which are two aspects of drug metabolism. |
Dental Therapeutics |
Therapeutic dentistry is a type of treatment that tries to improve the health of the teeth and gums. In common dental therapeutics are dedicated to preserving, restoring, and maintaining the health of your oral cavity through therapeutic procedures such as periodontal therapy and tooth extraction. |
Typical Elective Subjects for Dentistry
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
---|---|
Public Health Dentistry |
Public health dentistry is concerned with identifying critical dental health problems and developing practical solutions to improve the dental health of populations rather than individuals. |
Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics |
Conservative dentistry and endodontics are the branches of dentistry that deal with the treatment of caries, misshapen, discoloured, unesthetic, or shattered teeth, while endodontics deals with the treatment of pulpal and periapical illnesses, as well as the management of dental pain. |
Periodontics |
Periodontics is a dental speciality that focuses on the supporting structures of teeth as well as diseases and ailments that impact them. The cementum, alveolar bone, gingiva, and periodontal ligament are all part of the periodontium, which is made up of supporting tissues. |
Paediatric & Preventive Dentistry |
Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry is committed to the oral health of children from infancy through adolescence, with the experience and qualifications to care for a gums, child's teeth, and mouth at all phases of development. |
Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopaedics |
Dentofacial orthopaedics is concerned with the guidance of facial growth and development, which happens primarily throughout childhood, and is one of the reasons why children are often the greatest candidates for dentofacial orthopaedic therapy. |
Detailed Dental Syllabus
Semester |
Core/Elective |
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
---|---|---|---|
1 & 2 |
General human anatomy- head and neck (embryology, histology, and osteology)
|
General Human Anatomy including Embryology and Histology |
The purpose of this paper is to provide students with information and insight into the functional anatomy of a normal human and the embryological development of therapeutically significant components. |
3 & 4 |
Pre-clinical Prosthodontics and crown bridge Dental materials Preclinical conservative dentistry General pathology and microbiology Pharmacology
|
Dental Materials |
Dental impression materials, restorative resins, dental amalgam, acrylic resins, dental casting investments, dental implants, dental casting alloys, soldering, brazing, and welding are all examples of gypsum and gypsum products. |
5 & 6 |
General surgery Oral pathology and oral microbiology General medicine
|
General Surgery |
The purpose of this paper is to familiarise the student with a variety of disorders that may require surgical intervention, as well as to build skills in examining a routine ulcer, swelling, and other related conditions, as well as performing minor surgical treatments. |
7 & 8 |
Oral and maxillofacial surgery Conservative dentistry and endodontics Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics Oral medicine and radiology Prosthodontics and Crown and bridge Paediatric and preventive dentistry Public health dentistry PeriDentistry
|
Public Health Dentistry |
General surgical principles, surgical history, surgical principles, resuscitation of seriously injured patients, thyroid and parathyroid illnesses, burns and scalds, facial development anomalies |
Dental Subject Specialisations
Prosthodontics, Dental Mechanics, Conservative Dentistry, Periodontics, and Surgery are just a few of the prominent BDS specialisations. The details of which are listed below;
Specialisation |
Subjects |
Details |
---|---|---|
Endodontist
|
|
Endodontics is that branch of dentistry that deals with the dental pulp and tissues that surround the tooth's roots. "Endo" means "within," and "odont" means "tooth." The delicate pulp tissue inside the tooth is treated by endodontic treatment, often known as root canal therapy. |
Prosthodontics
|
|
Prosthodontics is a discipline of dentistry that deals with the replacement of lost teeth and the soft and hard tissues that go with them using prosthetics that can be fixed or detachable, or supported and kept by implants. |
Periodontics
|
|
Periodontics is a dentistry speciality that focuses solely on the inflammatory condition that causes the gums and other supporting components around the teeth to deteriorate. A periodontist is a dentist that specialises in periodontal diagnosis, disease prevention, and treatment, as well as dental implant implantation. |
Conservative Dentistry |
|
Conservative dentistry is a speciality of dentistry that focuses on keeping teeth in the mouth as healthy as possible. It comprises many types of direct and indirect restorations of individual teeth in the mouth, as well as operative dentistry and endodontics. |
Surgery |
|
The physical manipulation of a physiological structure to diagnose, prevent, or cure a condition is known as general surgery. The focus is on the clinical approach to the patient's ailment as a whole, as well as the many surgical therapy options. |
Books and Authors related to Dentistry
Because Dentistry is such a broad field with so many specialities, students need to refer to a wide variety of literature during their undergraduate or postgraduate studies. Some of the most often recommended novels are listed below.
Subject |
Book Title |
Author |
Description |
---|---|---|---|
Clinical Dentistry |
Oxford Handbook of Clinical Dentistry |
David A. Mitchell and Laura Mitchell |
In a condensed format, the latest version of this pocket handbook covers the field of clinical dentistry. It has been totally changed and updated to include a plethora of fresh information, such as web-based learning and relevant resources, as well as more diagrams and colour clinical images. |
Dentistry and Oral Surgery |
BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Dentistry and Oral Surgery
|
Alexander M. Reiter, Margherita Gracias |
The BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Dentistry and Oral Surgery is a timely publication in an internationally increasing speciality subject. It is a valuable resource for general small animal veterinary surgeons, students, and nurses/technicians who want to improve their knowledge and skills in dentistry and oral surgery. |
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery |
Basic Guide to Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
|
Nicola Rogers, Cinzia Pickett |
The role of the dental nurse in oral and maxillofacial surgical operations is explained in detail in Basic Guide to Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Anatomy of the head and neck, pain and anxiety control, injuries and more complex procedures are all covered in an easy-to-understand manner. |
Dental Implant Surgery |
Quick Reference to Dental Implant Surgery
|
Mohamed A. Maksoud |
Quick Reference to Dental Implant Surgery provides busy practitioners with quick access to all of the key information needed for effective dental implant surgery. It has been deliberately developed to be utilised while the patient is seated and follows a simple, easy-to-follow pattern. |
Dental Implant Surgery |
Color Atlas of Dental Implant Surgery
|
Michael S. Block DMD |
With this colourful atlas-style book, you'll be able to learn implant processes and methods in no time! Dental Implant Surgery includes full-colour clinical photographs and practical guidance for a wide range of implant difficulties. Treatment planning, pre-surgical recommendations, thorough surgical techniques, and postoperative follow-up are all included in this guide. |
Entrance Exams for Dentistry
The purpose of the Dental Entrance Exams is to get admission to the Bachelors of Dental Surgery (BDS) and Masters of Dental Surgery (MDS) programmes. Aspirants can easily pass the entrance exam if they prepare according to the syllabus and previous papers. Candidates must focus on their studies in order to be the first to pass the tests. The eligibility requirements for various colleges may differ.
Following your BDS, you may want to pursue an MDS to gain a more in-depth understanding of the subject. It is the highest level of study in the field of dentistry and can help you find a career as a dentist in reputable organisations.
You can enrol in either a government or private college based on your performance in the entrance test. Depending on your interests, you can select a specialisation area. Prosthodontics, orthodontics, operative dentistry, and conservative dentistry are some of the specialisation possibilities available during the MDS.
Dental Syllabus for Distance Learning Programmes
Distance education is a viable option for those who cannot afford full-time classes. Part-time or distance Dentistry programmes are also available to students who do not meet the eligibility requirements for full-time courses. Distance learning programmes have a syllabus that is strikingly comparable to traditional programmes. The evaluation method is essentially identical to that of conventional courses, with 30 per cent for internal assessment and 70 per cent for the end-of-semester examination. Top schools which offer distance learning programs in Dentistry are IGNOU, Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL), and Gitam Deemed to be University to name a few.
Top Colleges Offering Dental Courses
These are India's best colleges for Dentistry, based on their curriculum, elective options, and in-house placement prospects.
College/Institute/University |
Syllabus PDFs |
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Faculty of Dental Sciences King George's Medical University, Lucknow |
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Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai |
To be uploaded soon |
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Frequently Asked Questions on Dental Syllabus
Q: What is the scope of Dentistry?
Q: Is there a difference between dentistry and medicine courses in terms of difficulty?
Q: What are the topics covered in the first year of BDS?
- Anatomy of the head and neck in general (embryology, histology, and osteology)
- Human physiology, biochemistry, nutrition, and dietetics in general.
- Histology, Anatomy, and embryology of the teeth.
Q: What does the abbreviation BDS stand for in the medical field?
Q: Can a BDS Student become a Surgeon?
Q: Is NEET required for BDS?
Q: How many times can you take the NEET MDS?
Q: Is getting admission to MDS courses a difficult task?
Q: What is the highest level of Dental Degree?
Q: Does BDS students pursue a career in academics?
Q: Will BDS be counted as a good career option for career in 2022?
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Popular Courses
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250 Colleges
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News & Updates
Student Forum
Answered Yesterday
The application for NEET UG 2025 will be available from January 2025, and the examination is scheduled to be held on May 4, 2025;
Important Dates
Application Form Issued: January 2025
Application Last Date: February 2025
Correction Window: March 2025
Admit Card Release: April 2025
Exam Date: May 4, 2025
Answered Yesterday
Hi Sakshi,
To apply for a BDS internship at RUHS College, follow these steps:
Application Process:
- Check Eligibility – Ensure you have completed final-year BDS exams from a DCI-recognized college.
- Visit RUHS Official Website – Check the internship notification and guidelines.
- Obtain No Objection Certifi
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 days ago
The demand for Dental professionals is expected to grow significantly in the coming years due to several key factors. Increasing awareness about oral health, especially in developing countries, is driving more people to seek dental care regularly, thereby expanding the patient base.
Moreover, as the
M
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
BDS course students often face several challenges during their course. One of the main difficulties is the academic rigour, as the curriculum is vast and involves mastering complex subjects like Anatomy, Biochemistry, and Dental Sciences, requiring consistent study and strong memorization skills.
Th
M
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Pursuing a BDS course offers several advantages over other healthcare courses, especially for those interested in specialised oral healthcare. One key benefit is that dentistry focuses on a specific aspect of healthcare, allowing graduates to develop expert skills in diagnosing, treating, and preven
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Pursuing diplomas or certifications after completing a BDS course can significantly enhance a dentist's career prospects by offering specialised skills and knowledge in various areas of dentistry.
These certifications can help BDS graduates acquire expertise in high-demand areas, enabling them to of
K
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
When choosing a college for BDS course, students should consider the following factors:
Accreditation and Recognition
Faculty and Teaching Quality
Infrastructure and Facilities
Clinical Exposure and Internship Opportunities
Location
Fee Structure and Financial Aid
Admission Process and Cutoffs
Reputation an
Y
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
The BDS course syllabus is specifically designed to focus on dental Science and oral health, while the MBBS syllabus is centred around general medicine and surgery.
In the BDS course, subjects are tailored to dental care, such as dental anatomy.
In contrast, the MBBS syllabus covers a broader range o
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 days ago
Yes, an internship or practical training is an essential part of the BDS course. After completing the academic portion of the program, BDS course students are required to undergo a one-year compulsory internship. During this period, they gain hands-on experience by working in dental hospitals, clini
N
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Yes, it is mandatory to have a background in Science (with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology or PCB) in 12th grade to apply for a BDS course. Since dentistry is a medical field, having a strong foundation in Science is essential to understanding the complex biological and chemical processes involved i
J
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
After completing a BDS course, there are several pathways to enhance your earning potential and secure a high salary.
One option is to pursue a specialization, such as orthodontics, oral surgery, prosthodontics, or periodontics, which not only opens doors to higher-paying opportunities but also posi
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Candidates who have scored 300 marks and wish to pursue MBBS or BDS programs can only apply through the paid seat quota.
This option allows admission by paying a higher fee, unlike the regular merit-based admission process.
K
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
With a NEET score of 400, you have a reasonable chance of securing admission to a BDS course, particularly if you belong to a reserved category.
However, if you're targeting a top dental college in Punjab, a higher score would significantly improve your chances.
Y
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
The bill stipulates that similar to medical graduates, dental graduates will now be required to take the 'National Exit Test (Dental)' to obtain a license to practice dentistry. Additionally, the NExT (Dental) exam will serve as the primary basis for admission to postgraduate dental programs in dent
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 days ago
While it is not common to pursue a career in Gynecology directly after completing a BDS course, it is technically possible to shift to the field of Gynecology through further education.
To become a Gynecologist, one would typically need to complete an MBBS followed by a specialisation in Gynecology
N
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Studying for a BDS course can be challenging, as it requires a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. BDS course covers a wide range of subjects, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, pathology, and specialised dental subjects like oral surgery, pr
J
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
A BDS is not inherently a government job, but BDS graduates have the option to pursue government jobs in the healthcare sector. Many government hospitals, clinics, and health organizations hire dentists with a BDS degree to work in public healthcare facilities, offer dental care in government-run pr
M
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
The BDS course typically lasts for 5 years in most countries, including India. The BDS course is divided into academic years, with the first few years focusing on basic medical sciences, dental anatomy, and pre-clinical training.
The later years of the BDS course emphasize clinical practice, where s
M
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
BDS graduates can opt for various certificate courses to enhance their skills and specialize in specific areas of dentistry. BDS Certificate courses focus on practical training and advanced techniques, enabling dentists to provide specialised treatments.
Additionally, BDS certificate courses help BD
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Yes, you can pursue Cosmetology courses after completing a BDS course. With a strong foundation in facial anatomy and aesthetics, BDS course graduates are well-suited for specialised courses in cosmetology, which cover topics like skin treatments, dermal fillers, botox, laser therapy, and anti-aging
K
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
After completing a BDS course, students can pursue Diploma courses to enhance their skills and specialisation in specific fields. Diploma in BDS courses typically focus on practical training and advanced techniques, preparing graduates for specialised roles in dental clinics, hospitals, or independe
Y
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 3 days ago
Yes, after completing a BDS, you can opt for a Hospital Management course, and it can be highly beneficial. With a background in dentistry, a Hospital Management course will equip you with the necessary skills to transition into administrative roles within healthcare institutions.
The course covers
L
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a week ago
No, candidates cannot join Nair Hospital Dental College Mumbai without NEET for BDS. To get admission, candidates are required to apply and appear for NEET UG. Further, candidates are required to fill out the basic eligiblity i.e pass Class 10 and Class 12 or equivalent with 50% aggregate from a rec
R
Contributor-Level 6
Answered 2 weeks ago
Doing post-graduate Diploma in dermatology after Bachelor of Dental Surgery can be a very promising career move.
Particularly if you are interested in diverse skill sets in dermatology, skin care, and aesthetics, this is the right step toward diversification. Dermatology is a very large field with in
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 weeks ago
Sri Ramakrishna Dental College and Hospital is a known college for dental sciences, Admission to BDS is solely on the basis of marks acquired in NEET UG exam, folllowed by NEET counselling session. Thus, candidates can get into Sri Ramakrishna Dental College and Hospital for BDS by cracking NEET wit
R
Contributor-Level 6
Answered 2 weeks ago
To be eligible for admission to BDS courses at Sri Ramakrishna Dental College and Hospital, candidates are required to pay NEET UG application fee for admission.The application fee can be paid in an online mode via Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking or UPI. The category-wise application fees are
P
Contributor-Level 6
Answered 3 weeks ago
The tuition fees for BDS in government colleges in India typically range from 15,000 to 1,00,000 per year, depending on the institution and its location. For instance, government dental colleges like those in Goa, Gujarat, and Karnataka charge between 20,000 and 53,650 annually, while other colleges
Answered 3 weeks ago
Yes, it is possible to pursue a second MDS (Master of Dental Surgery) in a different dental department after completing one, but there are certain requirements and limitations. Generally, candidates must apply for the second MDS programme through the regular admission process, which includes qualify
Answered 3 weeks ago
Yes, it is worth pursuing BDS at Sri Ramakrishna Dental College and Hospital as it is a private college and was formed by the SNR Sons Charitable Trust, established in 1970. At present, the college has a total of 91 faculty members and more than 15,000 students enrolled in its various programmes. Sr
M
Beginner-Level 4
Answered 3 weeks ago
Yes, Sri Ramakrishna Dental College and Hospital is a good college for BDS programme as it has a total of 91 faculty members and more than 15,000 students enrolled in its various programmes. The college is recognised by the Dental Council of India and offers courses in affiliation with the MGR Unive
N
Beginner-Level 4
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